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Human Trafficking

If you suspect human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888.

Human trafficking is modern day slavery that touches every corner of the globe. This $32 billion criminal enterprise is the fastest growing crime in the world. Human trafficking involves both commercial sexual exploitation and labor servitude. The average age of entry for victims is 12-14 years old.

In 2011, Attorney General Sam Olens joined forces with Senator Renee Unterman and Representative Edward Lindsey during his first legislative session as Attorney General to advocate for a stronger human trafficking law in Georgia. HB 200 went into effect on July 1, 2011, and the punishment now fits the crime. HB 200:

Substantially increases the punishment for human trafficking from a possible one year sentence to a minimum of ten years. If the trafficking causes a minor to commit sex acts by coercion or deception, human traffickers now face 25 years to life in prison, up from maximum sentence of 20 years. Offenders can also be fined up to $100,000.00.

Takes the important step of no longer allowing the age of consent (16) or the lack of knowledge of the age of the victim to be used as a defense.

Broadens the definition of coercion to recognize and encompass additional ways that victims are coerced into exploitation.

Authorizes asset forfeiture for property derived from or used in trafficking

Provides training for law enforcement.

Increases punishments for pimping, pandering and keeping a house of prostitution, when the victim is under 16 years of age from five to twenty years to ten to thirty years.

Makes victims of human trafficking eligible for victim compensation for the serious mental and emotional trauma they experience.